Navaneeta Das Skinner has built an impressive 25-year career in advertising, known for her strategic vision and leadership. Originally from Assam, India, she excelled academically and began her career at Ogilvy India, advancing quickly. At Mindshare WPP in Singapore, she won the “Mindshare Purple Award” in 2010. Recognised as “Asia's Influential Digital Media Professional” in 2015, Navaneeta now leads a global team across 92 countries as Global Client Lead at Publicis Groupe. Recently, Navaneeta was named one of the Global 200 Women Power Leaders 2024.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Navaneeta discusses about trends in the industry, meditation practices helping in professional growth and much more.
1) Congratulations on being named one of the Global 200 Women Power Leaders 2024! Can you share what this recognition means to you and how it impacts your vision for your career in advertising?
Being named one of the Global 200 Women Power Leaders in 2024 is an incredible honour. This recognition represents a personal milestone and is also a tribute to the dreams of countless young women from small towns who aspire to make their mark in the corporate world. I see this as an opportunity to further my commitment to growth strategies at Publicis Groupe by fostering an inclusive environment that nurtures innovative diverse teams.
This award reinforces my dedication to empowering others, creating new paths, and showing what’s possible through commitment and hard work. A vital part of my talent strategy includes promoting geographic diversity, bringing together people from different cultures and backgrounds. London, as a global hub of diversity, continues to be the perfect environment for realising this vision.
2) How has your approach to advertising and brand strategy evolved over the years, and what trends do you think are most important for the industry in 2024?
When I started in advertising, the landscape was simpler—television and print dominated – but it was still intense, landing a prime front-page ad, securing the 9 pm TV slot, or taking over a city centre billboard was incredibly competitive. Each success felt monumental, and deadlines were intense and relentless.
Then, the industry transformed with marketing analytics and econometrics, and advertising shifted from mere visibility to driving real impact. ROI became central, and advertising was increasingly recognised as essential to sales growth.
The digital era brought attribution and personalisation, reshaping our approach. Today, we strive for a balance—a mix of broad reach and tailored communication. Influencers have taken on a crucial role, and brands must master paid, owned, earned, and “rented” (e-commerce) media.
Now, AI and automation enable the perfect blend of creative flair and precision, but sustainability and diversity must ground our strategies to ensure our growth is both meaningful and impactful.
3) You’re also a Feng Shui professional, a Reiki Grand Master, and experienced in meditation practices. How do these skills help you in your career?
Feng Shui deepens our understanding of the elements and the harmony between them, fostering a profound respect for the environment, whether indoors or out. Rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy, it teaches us to recognise and balance energies to create spaces that support wellbeing. Reiki, originating from Japan, enhances one’s connection to universal energy, bringing forth the art of healing for people, animals, and situations alike. The Tarot, with its roots in the Western world, has been a long-practised tool for introspection, divination and guidance.
Each of these traditions carries a unique cultural heritage, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to honour them. They instil a deep respect for the diverse ways we can foster harmony and healing in ourselves and the world. In my work, I sometimes begin meetings with a brief guided meditation, which brings the team together and cultivates a shared vision, fostering creativity and unity.
4) As a woman leader in advertising, how do you see the landscape evolving, particularly for women in the industry? What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the field?
As a woman leader in advertising, I would say we have come a long way – there are much more supportive environments, regular forums, more mentors, and more tailored career paths. Additionally, brands and agencies are increasingly valuing empathetic and collaborative leadership, qualities often championed by women in the industry. However, there is still a lot to be done.
For young women in the industry: build confidence, cultivate a unique identity, stay curious—knowledge is power—and remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Find a mentor and network actively, especially within your organisation.
